How to plan a small meeting in Chicago

Published on July 27, 2026 by Choose Chicago

Take advantage of Chicago’s unique venues and activities to create distinct experiences for your small group.

Small meetings are a steady trend for companies seeking flexibility while providing targeted experiences. Across the industry, intimate events of 20-100 attendees are becoming increasingly popular — in fact, 63% of organizers report growing demand for micro-events and small gatherings, according to Booking.com.

Chicago is an ideal destination for your next small-scale meeting. As the country’s best big city, Chicago has a diverse selection of venues, attractions, and activities for groups of all sizes. It’s the perfect place for unforgettable corporate retreats, brand activations, VIP gatherings, and other intimate events.

With unmatched connectivity thanks to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport, a tapestry of vibrant neighborhoods, and a mix of hotel brands and styles, Chicago’s vast array of amenities allows planners to streamline logistics and provide curated, memorable experiences for their small groups.

Here are a few ideas to get you started with planning your next small meeting in Chicago. 

Small venues in Chicago

Flip the script on the notion of going big or going home. Chicago is home to an impressive number of special events venues that specialize in making small groups feel like big fish.

Expect personalized service, customizable spaces, and unique design among selections like:

Glessner House

A National Historic Landmark,Glessner House is a historic home and museum in the South Loop neighborhood. Plan a private meal or celebration at the exclusive dining room (18 guests), versatile coachhouse (70 seated, 125 reception), or scenic courtyard (120 seated, 200 reception). Organize tours of the house designed by the legendary American architect Henry Hobson Richardson and completed in 1887.

David Rubenstein Forum

Located on the University of Chicago campus and just a 10-minute walk from theObama Presidential Center,the David Rubenstein Forum regularly hosts small summits, conferences, and private celebrations. The Forum has a collection of dedicated boardrooms — such as the Peter May Boardroom (holds 70) — and intimate spaces that are ideal for executive meetings or specialized workshops.

Revel Motor Row

A landmark venue near theMcCormick Place campus,Revel Motor Row dates back to 1936 and was previously home to the Illinois Automobile Club and the Chicago Defender. The restored and reimagined building features 20 unique spaces, including breakout rooms, private dining, and an ornate boardroom. It’s an ideal spot for a standalone event or micro-event within a larger gathering. The outdoor courtyard is a great venue for networking or an elegant meal.

F1 Arcade

In the heart of downtown River North, the brand new F1 Arcade brings the exhilaration of state-of-the-art simulation racing to Chicago. Start your day in the private event space, equipped with a presentation screen and private AV. Then seamlessly transition into evening fun with your group’s own dedicated race simulators and private dining spaces. 

Explore more Chicago venues, from special event spaces to convention and conference facilities. 

Chicago private dining for small groups

There’s no better foodie city than Chicago. Many of the city’s top restaurants have stellar private dining areas made even grander by top-flight service.

Here’s a sample of your choices:

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse

A true Chicago legend in the Gold Coast enclave,Gibsonsis a classic American steakhouse that specializes in hosting small groups with six distinct private dining spaces. The Gibsons Room overflows with atmosphere, seating 100 in a space enhanced by beautiful hardwood floors, a built-in stocked wood bar, and a cozy fireplace. The State Room and Board Room are ideal for VIP meals, seating 18 guests. The East and West Rooms seat 90 and 60 attendees, respectively.

Nia

In the bustling West Loop, Nia offers an array of Mediterranean tapas and wine. Guests are welcomed into a warm and welcoming ambiance, particularly in the private dining area for 80. The chefs can prepare casual fare for cocktail hours or serve formal feasts. Its central location adds convenience for pre- and post-event activities.

Eden

No two meals are alike ateden in Avondale, which builds its menus around what’s grown in its on-site greenhouse. There are three private dining options, ranging from 18 attendees (Selenite) to 64 attendees (Eden West), making it an ideal setting for networking events and team celebrations. Groups with a sustainability focus will appreciate the seasonal menu.

The Duck Inn

A James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant,The Duck Inn is set in a pre-Prohibition era tavern where diners enjoy new American cuisine and contemporary cocktails. A buyout of the main dining room seats 50 attendees and accommodates 70 reception guests — perfect for an elevated team meal or private function. In warmer months, you can plan a pig roast, salmon bake, BBQ, or pizza party in the Backyard, an intimate al fresco setting that seats up to 60 attendees.

Deliz

This new Italian steakhouse offers an elevated experience for VIP guests and intimate groups. Deliz is quickly becoming known for its opulent presentations and refined dishes. Book a private or semi-private space for a memorable meal for a range of group sizes. 

Bronzeville Winery

Art, wine, and community intersect at this buzzing restaurant in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood. Bronzeville Winery is known for its chef-driven cuisine, modern atmosphere, and a wine list that spotlights Black and women-owned wineries. The space can accommodate groups of up to 300 with a full buy-out, or smaller parties looking for an intimate dinner.

Explore Chicago restaurants of all sizes from throughout the city’s award-winning dining scene.  

Boutique hotels in Chicago

Chicago’s boutique and neighborhood hotels offer a variety of styles, sizes, and amenities — allowing you to find one that seamlessly matches your group’s needs and vibe. 

Consider one of these options:

Sophy – Hyde Park: The Sophy Hyde Park is a luxury boutique hotel in the culturally rich Hyde Park neighborhood, a vibrant community on the city’s historic South Side. The 98-room hotel can host small gatherings and meetings in their private dining room, connected to an outdoor sanctuary. Guests will enjoy easy access to nearby cultural attractions, including the Obama Presidential Center and the Museum of Science and Industry.

Hotel Zachary at Gallagher Way: You don’t have to be a sports fan to appreciateHotel Zachary at Gallagher Way, right across the street from historic Wrigley Field in the Lakeview neighborhood. The 173-room lifestyle hotel features 14 event rooms totaling just under 13,000 square feet of meeting space. Guest rooms and dining options feature views of the stadium exterior and marquee. Add a private tour of Wrigley Field to round out the itinerary.

Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park: Located near the hip Bucktown neighborhood, the 99-room Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park is a feast for the senses. Guests are steps away from high-end restaurants, taco stands, local boutiques, vintage shops, music clubs, and art galleries. For a scenic view of the city, reserve space at The Kennedy Rooftop  There are three intimate meeting spaces on-site; the largest, the Ashland Room, seats 35 attendees.

Find Chicago hotels across the city for groups of all sizes.

Chicago activities for small groups

Shared experiences build stronger teams and create lifelong memories for attendees. Here are a few fun outings perfect for smaller groups that are distinctly Chicago. 

The Cube experience: One of Chicago’s newest group attractions, The Cube is an interactive, competitive experience based on the popular game show. The large private spaces offer dedicated bars and bathrooms, tailored food and drink packages, and private Cubes for up to 30 guests.

Wrigley Field tours: This historic stadium is the country’s second-oldest ballpark. Book a 90-minutebehind-the-scenes tour that includes access to areas like the dugout, press box, field, and seating areas during non-game days. Guests will learn the stories behind unique features like the outfield ivy and the hand-operated scoreboard. 

The Second City improv show and workshops: Many top performers got their big break at The Second City, the birthplace of improv and one of the country’s most acclaimed comedy clubs. You can book a private performance or opt forteambuilding exercises facilitated by members of the troupe.

Art Institute of Chicago tours: No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to the historicArt Institute. Make the experience special by booking a private tour, a two-hour exploration of some of the greatest artists ever, including Vincent van Gogh, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock.

Chicago History Museum tours: Give attendees a true sense of place with this exclusive experienceshowcasing Chicago’s historic moments, fascinating culture, and landmark sports moments. Attendees will learn about the city’s resiliency after the great fire in 1871 and how it continues to influence America’s transportation, industries, and everyday life. Tours are two hours. 

Explore unique group activities in Chicago, from classic experiences to new options. 

Reach out to a member of theChoose Chicago teamtoday to help you plan the perfect small meeting.